Bristol City swoop for Wade Elliott

Bristol City have completed the signing of Wade Elliott on a one-year deal following an impressive loan spell.

The 35-year-old midfielder made 19 appearances last season at Ashton Gate as City secured safety in Sky Bet League 1 and Steve Cotterill has moved to make the deal permanent.

He becomes the club's second signing of the day following the acquisition of Mark Little on a three-year contract.

Cotterill believes Elliott's age will not be a hindrance.

The Robins boss said: "I've known Wade a long time. He's got so much experience and was invaluable to us last season. We looked a far better unit when he came into the midfield.

"He's so calm under pressure and helps the team get the ball from defence to attack. Add that to the fact that he's a fantastic lad and player, I feel he's a great addition to the squad.

"You've only got to see the top players currently involved at the World Cup - [Andrea] Pirlo, [Miroslav] Klose, [Steven] Gerrard, all of them are in their thirties. As long as you get the right player, they can be just as valuable as someone aged 22, 23 or 24.

"The way he rubbed off on the squad last year was there for all to see. We've got some good professionals in the group - Sam Baldock is another. The more you have of that sort, the better."

Elliott, whose deal with Birmingham City ends on 1 July, has teamed up with Cotterill before when at Burnley in 2005.